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Increased TSP Access Act of 2025
4/10/2025, 2:38 AM
Summary of Bill S 1150
One of the key provisions of the bill is to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of technical assistance programs by ensuring that resources are allocated in a more targeted and strategic manner. This will help to better meet the needs of farmers and ranchers, and ultimately improve the overall productivity and sustainability of the agricultural industry.
Additionally, the bill includes measures to enhance coordination and collaboration among various agencies and organizations involved in providing technical assistance. By fostering greater communication and cooperation, the bill aims to create a more cohesive and integrated approach to supporting farmers and ranchers. Overall, Bill 119 s 1150 seeks to modernize and improve the delivery of technical assistance in the agricultural sector, with the ultimate goal of promoting food security and sustainability. The bill represents a bipartisan effort to address the evolving needs of farmers and ranchers, and to ensure that they have the resources and support necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive industry.
Congressional Summary of S 1150
Increased TSP Access Act of 2025
This bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to modify the certification process for Technical Service Providers (TSPs) at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) by establishing an approval process for nonfederal certifying entities and a streamlined certification process for TSPs that hold certain specialty certifications.
As background, TSPs are third-party service providers, such as private businesses, Indian tribes, and nonprofit organizations, that work on behalf of customers to offer planning, design, and implementation services that meet NRCS criteria.
The bill specifies that USDA must ensure, to the maximum extent practicable, third-party providers with expertise in the technical aspects of conservation practice design, implementation, and evaluation are eligible to become approved TSPs.
USDA must provide a streamlined certification process for TSPs who hold appropriate specialty certifications (e.g., certified crop advisors).
In determining the eligibility of a nonfederal certifying entity, USDA must consider the ability, experience, expertise, and history of the entity. USDA must decide whether to approve an application submitted by a nonfederal certifying entity to certify TSPs within a specified time period.
USDA must also review a TSP's certification by a nonfederal certifying entity within a specified time period. If the certification is satisfactory, USDA must include the TSP on a USDA-maintained registry of certified TSPs.
The bill also specifies that TSPs must be paid at rates equivalent to technical assistance provided by USDA.
Further, USDA must provide accessible public information on TSPs, including information on funding and certification results.
